Valentine's Day is coming and, unfortunately, not every guy has the knowledge of how to be a hopeless romantic like Noah Calhoun in "The Notebook" or just Ryan Gosling in general. With my guidance, I can give you the basics on how to sweep a woman off her feet. You don't necessarily have to build her dream house by hand like Noah, but romancing a woman does take a little effort that is well worth it. Almost every girl likes a little romance in her life.
Surprises
It is exciting to receive a special gift or go on a date that is completely unexpected. It shows that you care about her and took the time to plan something out on your own. Surprises do not happen often so that is why they are so valuable.
Quality one-on-one time
Time with a significant other is more valuable to a woman when it is spent with just you two rather than with your roommates or friends. Interactions and conversations are more intimate without an audience. Also, all your focus can be on her and that will make her feel special.
Make dinner for her from scratch
The effort you put into creating a special homemade dinner for her will not go unrecognized. Doing something like this shows you care without saying it in words. Have the fire going or use candles on the table to set the mood. Using light and slow music will create the perfect final touch.
Hand-written notes
Look up a romantic poem and write it in a card or on a plain piece of paper and leave it somewhere in plain sight. It does not matter how bad your handwriting is because it is the thought that counts. Tell her how you feel about her (hint: be honest but also make sure to be sweet).
Flowers
Giving a woman flowers is a well-known act of romance that does not occur often enough. If you feel that buying flowers makes you less "manly," then you need to get over that feeling. Getting her favorite kind of flowers or roses almost never fails.
Dancing
I don't mean going to Tubby's and grinding up against a random girl; that is not even a little romantic. We are jealous of the women in movies that get asked to do a traditional dance, like the waltz, by a nice gentleman. Another "Notebook" reference: watch the scene where Noah asks Allie to dance in the street, at night, with no music.
Stars/sunset or sunrise
Catching nature at its finest in a romantic setting is priceless. Plan a simple picnic with snacks and wine or just go on a walk and find a bench to look up at the sky. If you go to a secluded spot next to a lake or a large pond then that is even better. There is something calming about hearing the sounds of flowing water in the background.
Jewelry
I haven't met a woman who doesn't wear some kind of jewelry or accessory. Getting jewelry as a gift from a significant other is special and thoughtful. Buy something simple and shiny if you don't know for sure what she likes.
Chocolate or favorite candy
Everyone, even guys, likes candy so you can't go wrong with this one. There is no need to buy a full bag of chocolate kisses; just get something small that you know she will like.
Not every woman likes to be wooed in the same way so make sure to use your best judgment when romancing her. Don't be afraid to do some research on your own — Internet, romantic movies, etc. Pay attention to the certain things she says she likes and does not like.
Always remember: if you love her, tell her over and over again, every day - but make sure you mean it.
Holly Grannis is a senior in public relations and sociology. Please send comments to edge@kstatecollegian.com.
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